Chandigarh, Aug 13 — Punjab Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Kewal Singh Dhillon on Thursday condemned the attack on Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sukhbir Singh Badal at Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazur Sahib in Nanded in Maharashtra and sought an impartial probe and action in accordance with the law.
Dhillon said such a violent incident taking place on the sacred premises of Sri Hazur Sahib "is deeply unfortunate and concerning".
He added that violence has no place in any society or democracy, and incidents that violate the sanctity and dignity of religious places cannot be tolerated at any cost.
He said that political differences "are one thing, but violence or an attack of this nature is extremely unfortunate".
He added that the sacred land of Sri Hazur Sahib "gives the message of peace, service, meditation and 'Sarbat Da Bhala' (the welfare of all). An incident of violence at such a holy place is deeply distressing for the entire Sikh community and all peace-loving people".
Dhillon prayed for the speedy recovery and 'Chardi Kala' (high spirits) of Sukhbir Singh Badal and said the incident should be investigated impartially and strict action should be taken against those responsible in accordance with the law.
He appealed to all Punjabis and the 'sangat' (congregation) to maintain peace, communal harmony and mutual respect and to stay away from any form of violence or provocative action.
Badal was attacked with a sharp-edged weapon by a Nihang Sikh when he was there to pay obeisance along with his family.
The accused reportedly attacked Badal using a 'kirpan'. However, Badal is out of danger and undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Nanded.
Earlier, former Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Badal was attacked on December 4, 2024, while performing Sewadar duties at the gate of Golden Temple in Amritsar.
Reacting to the attack, senior SAD leader Daljit Singh Cheema told the media that this was distressing news and it was the second life-threatening attack on him within a short span of time.
"This represents a massive intelligence and security failure. Had the attack in Amritsar been properly investigated at the time, perhaps this second attack would not have happened. The consequence is that he has been subjected to another major attack now," he added.